Reports from Oxford University and the ONS on the impact of rising temperatures on mortality underline the need for extreme heat resistent housing, using materials such as heat-reflecting insulation, says Actis
More than 4,507 deaths were estimated to be linked to heat in England last year, when rising temperatures topped 40C according to the Office for National Statistics.
Around 3,000 more over-65s died than usual in England and Wales last summer.
ONS figures show there have been 50,000 heat-related deaths and more than 200,000 related to cold in England and Wales since 1988.
Both reports point to the impact of rising temparatures on human life
The Oxford University research states that the UK is ‘dangerously unprepared’ for the impact of rising temperatures and calls for sustainable adaptations to the built environment to keep people cool.
It says using ‘energy guzzling’ methods like air conditioning will only increase carbon emissions thus creating a vicious circle – and that sustainable alternatives must be used.
With September 2023 being the hottest September on global record, it is vital to adapt our building strategies to prevent unnecessary deaths, as well as discomfort, says Actis UK and Ireland sales director Mark Cooper.
UK buildings are designed to combat cold and cannot handle high heat
University report co-lead author Dr Jesus Lizana commented: “If we adapt the built environment in which we live, we won’t need to increase air conditioning. But right now, in countries such as the UK, our buildings act like greenhouses – no external protection from the sun in buildings, windows locked, no natural ventilation. Our buildings are exclusively prepared for the cold seasons.”
Mark also shares the concerns of fellow report author Dr Radhika Khosla, associate professor at the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, who says: “By 2050, the energy demand for cooling could be equal to all the electricity generated in 2016 by the US, EU and Japan combined. We have to focus now on ways to keep people cool in a sustainable way.’
Actis’s heat-reflecting insulation can protect homes against rising temperatures
The Actis Hybrid range of insulation and membranes and its new two-in-one Eolis HC have an important role to play in helping buildings stay cool.
“Part O of the building regulations obliges architects to limit unwanted solar gains and provide a way to remove heat from residential dwellings,” said Mark.
“While some insulation products can make homes unbearably hot in the summer, reflective alternatives also act as coolants – helping protect the health and comfort of the occupants.
“Using Actis products can make a dramatic impact on the comfort of homes in hot weather, with our new Eolis HC, a reflective insulation with an integrated vapour barrier, reflecting 95% of infrared radiation, courtesy of the revolutionary Triplex technology from which it is created.”
